Just like most journey's; it begins with transportation. As the case with John Candy, "Planes, trains, and automobiles!" This one started on a train like any other, I was meeting with an agency in Seattle then had set up another open showing in Vancouver, Canada. Exploration is one of the hobbies I love the most, it lets me unwind in my craft and take in the sights, sounds and smells of the culture right in front of me.

While visiting Vancouver it gave me the opportunity to adventure out and take a risk on some of the largest water pools and suspension bridges the pacific northwest had to offer. Transportation was fairly easy while traveling abroad, the subway was easy access able and close to most neighborhoods. If for some reason that wasn't good enough for you, you can always bring your snowboard or ski's and make your way around town or up to Whistler Resort.

A picture says a thousand words, so I'll just leave that top image right there. I am lucky enough to get to travel to places I've never explored of even dreamt of. I welcomed this next adventure into my books since I had a lucky assistant and travel companion, my pops. We traveled to New Orleans for a week of voodoo, spirits and an appealing heap of savory treats. Beforehand, I touched base with a few restaurants to create some content for them when I would be traveling to the state of Louisiana. Being persistent and present is what allowed me to set up some assignments while traveling and some great trade opportunities.

Today. "Choose a job you will love and you will never have to work a day in your life"-Confucius

Let's talk the real reason why we chose New Orleans. FOOD!! Leading up to this trip every corner I turned to, once I mentioned New Orleans the first thing that came to a persons mind was what restaurants I had locked in and what time was I going to Café Du Mondé! In New Orleans, as Louie Armstrong can tell you, you can not start a day until you've fed the soul.

Remember the memories that created you and stood by you to become the person that you are. I love sports, and seeing your child hood icon close out his final chapter in his playing career is a big phenomena that lasted around the entire NBA. Kobe Bryant will forever be missed and is known to me especially; as the greatest of all time.

Iphone-ography at it's best

For this trip, I traveled to Milwaukee, which is about a 90 drive north of Chicago. Growing up being a constant Lakers fan drew me to the obsession of this game. You must find what fuels you and pushes your self motives and inspirations, not just related to your career but related to your life. We live once and we all must make the most of it with the magic we are supplied with; at all costs.

Over my years in this industry, the photographer life is one with many avenues. You never know where an assignment will take you in life. My most recent assignment took me to the "World's Largest Corn Maze" which included a run/walk for participants. One of the fastest recorded times was close to 12 minutes. I believe the record was actually broke in seconds, but who am I to judge since no one was quick enough to catch the Flash except myself.

Some of the best experiences I get is meeting the people who come to these sort of magical places. For me it's about hearing those stories of why they came out that day and what makes memories like that so special to a family, a child or even from a dogs perspective. No matter the temperature (as cold as it got that day, close to low 30's) there's always a turnout. There's the rest of society who chooses to sleep in and dream a little longer; however, as a photographer I choose to take that reality we have in front of us and transcribe it to create a dream like look. Whoever missed out will feel right in place with the rest of the explorers from that day. No matter the subject, the character or place it's about recreating the dream so that each viewer is welcome to enjoy whatever endeavors they seek.

Coming from Southern California to Canada! Don't mess with the real life Walter Mitty; aka, Sosa. I had the privilege of meeting with a few creatives at some agencies I truly admired in Toronto. Fortunately, that weekend was a civic holiday so I had an extra day to spare. From there, I made the trek out to see one of the seven wonders of the world; Niagara Falls! it was a first in my book, hence I really was set out to transcribe each and every moment of that weekend.

Downtown Toronto; August 2015

Lets Play Two! Statue aside Rogers Centre; Home of the Toronto Blue Jays.

I had the opportunity to catch up with an old cousin in Canada. She got to show me the ropes and Snap my photo! Thanks Danielle.

I highly don't recommend a lot of you at home to follow what I did unless you're a professional and know what you're doing. I had my rig set up the entire trip on the Hornblower. My hasselblad is meant to withstand just about anything since I was shooting film, there's no electronics required and my GoPRO has a water housing to protect it. All of the images you'll see today however, are digital.

My film is currently being processed, yes this includes post processing folks. I try and shoot film just about every weekend for my personal collection and for stock purposes. Some images I leave undeveloped for a few months, I want to look at the images with fresh eyes when the time is right; it helps curate my ideal design.

Exiting my Canada Trip, it was about networking and putting faces to some of those names. I felt as if I had accomplished what I had come, if not it's always a positive to take a risk in life. On the way out of Niagara, we had stopped at the Niagara Fallsview casino for parking.

I pressed my luck that day and slipped $20 in the slots, after 5 minutes at the same machine I was ready to walk away with $100. Morale of the story, it's always good to press you're luck because you never know when that day will be your lucky day.

One Light Direction

The Everlasting One Light Portrait

In this excerpt I'm talking about One light imagery. I've been doing a lot of it lately and having the pleasure of keeping it simple. We all need some other pieces every once in awhile, my favorite piece is the all around edge light. It creates drama, mood and most importantly; direction.

The Goalie

Some of the most dynamic images; believe it or not, are one light scenarios. To see how the environment is used to supplement that scenario helps as well. It adds character and dimension to the subject matter. May it be as above the hockey player on a high key background, I wanted to add the story element as if he were on the ice getting ready for the game to start or at the end when there's nothing left the protector of the net.

Another example; as we're getting ready for the 2016 primaries, I wanted to create a dramatic one light image for the GOP. Giving the edge light the only attributes for our future candidate above. I let the flag create the direction for this image; since it is after all the subject in this one. It plays more of a key than the silhouette of the role player, seeing the our country makes us understand what we're going through right now with our GOP debates underway. There is no clear front runner so yet it is quite mysterious and ominous.

This past month I had a few friends visit me; including my photographer friend, Matt Douglas. It's somewhat interesting to see how people take the tourist approach on a lot of the cities most iconic monuments.

The selfie game is always a fun way for most people to do it, I would rather be the observer and see how some things play out. During the summer while everyone is out, I get to people watch on my breaks from Commercial Advertising with select companies and as my mind wanders, so does my camera.

Outside of my studio environment I must always have my special hats on. No I'm not talking about costumes, I just mean my hat of presence and of heightening my senses to notice the details of my surroundings.

I've been a man of many hobbies and interests. Yoga is a greater form of stretching to me; however, to many others it is a spiritual task and a greater understanding of ones body. Breathing alone is the key to being a yogi. This is where you need presence the most, where you tend to find the composition around the environment to create the story.

Travel assignments can be some of my most creative projects. When I'm out and about it gives me time to fully express myself as a photographer but most importantly, as an artist. Even in between assignments like stopping for coffee at the airport can sure turn interesting.

For some traveling is one of the most stressful times. I am thankful, I am more patient than when I once was. We all would like to get to where we would like to be, but we have to know there's never a rush just a sense of urgency.

Testing is all important in the life of a photographer. Everyday, I'm testing something new. May it be new locations, new models and most importantly new gear.

WARNING! Be cautious while location scouting.

For me, when I'm location scouting I'm trying to see how light reacts and how nature reacts to it. Usually I'll keep a scouting camera in my car; for instance, a GoPro does so much justice on the road.

Selfies are just a set of an example.

Be prepared for bailing models, it happens. Have a friend ready for adventures, if not be prepared to to snap a selfie. Your just seeing how skin reacts to the lighting set around you, in this case it was a glorious day and the overcast works brilliantly with skin tones, yet the harshness of the Sun gives a natural edge light.

Last but not least, test your equipment. My favorite thing is to bring my little GoPro buddy with me on assignments. From this editorial, I created a promotional video showing the creation of one of Acadia's newest dishes. Testing my video capabilities on my GO helped to show the client an understanding of what direction we could take when we do bring the full production in.

Lately my endeavors have taken me to some interesting places, if I'm shooting table top you should already know my stand in model is going to be my espresso.

Focus on the shapes, the curves, and the details.

Looking for the small details on location or on set, help establish a story that is about to take place. My motto that I've always lived by is "Less is Best". It has helped me time and time again in different scenarios. From placing props into a shot or even adding lights to add depth and dimension. If you see something extra ordinary in a 1 light set up, explore it and see life takes you.

In Santa Barbara last month for a special occasion at the resort.

On the road, I'd say I focus to details more so than not. Observing what's to come and how to create a story from the elements already given to us. It's as if you have a puzzle; and yet it's almost complete except one piece is missing. Showing the world that you are that missing piece to creating their story.

Where should I begin. It's been an all around adventurous year on this side. From LA to Cleveland, Chicago along the way and wrapping things up with a very blissful shoot in San Francisco. Of course, travel takes a wear on you. It's something to take granted because you only live young once. The best part about travel is meeting all the new faces. It's truly a journey when see the world moving right around you.

My first S'more ever made! I think I've deserved the name "Chef Sosa!"

Everyone is on their own journey, each and everyday. Who really knows if their headed to the same places I'm going to. To find someone that's close to the same path as I am, can be a shot in the dark. What I've learned over time is to never be surprised! There's someone out there who could be your alter ego, just you wait. When I'm traveling I usually stick to my routine; a salad a day keeps the Giants at bay. However, trying something new does build our creative palette. Just like the time I was asked to create my own delicious S'MORE! Yes, I know. "Who hasn't made a S'more!" Mind you, I'm from Los Angeles, we only start fires during NBA Finals.

Flying High in the sky.

I was privileged enough to photograph Fleet Week up in San Francisco, CA! A plane sure was waiting for me. This was near the finale encore! The sun sure was bringing in some magic that day. I was on a boat pushed so far out in the waters, that you could practically leap onto Alcatraz.

Here are some of my favorites of the Blue Angels from that day!

Bill wasn't the happiest to see "The Rock". You win some, you lose some with a travel buddy.

The best part about that day was probably be so close to Alcatraz. I don't believe I've ever been so close to Alcatraz. Other than the golden gate bridge; Alcatraz, better known as, "The Rock", is the 2nd iconic symbol I think of when I think of San Francisco. It has held some of the most dangerous criminals in all the west coast because it was known as the hardest prison to escape. A lot of iconic movies and images have been captured here throughout the decades. Nowadays, it's known as a tourist escape. One that day for Fleet Week, it was jam packed with viewers to see the Finale!

The Finale of Fleet Week, United Airlines Boeing flying over Alcatraz.

Caution Infected! Watch your step, the next leg of the way. Please remain seated and keep your arms and legs inside your desk area at all times. What you're about to see may be Fictitious, but may spook you out of your seat.

The Resurrection has begun! Photographed "The Zombie Run" group of infected individuals before they spread!

I had the pleasure of photographing "The Zombie Run" before the resurrection happened. Some volunteers came with their own make up; however, this event had their own make up stations for the humans who wanted to get extra bloody. Make up by Jessica Heibeck and the special FX team in Chicago, Illinois.

What Lies Ahead

Run OR Leap

Zombie Attack!

Eat or Be Eaten

My favorite part, was seeing all these creative people take initiative to let them stand out as much as possible. I had seen one family after the morning run and they caught my eye. I don't know if it was all the fake blood, as they chomped into a good sandwich. Maybe, the empty baby stroller with blood all over it. Either way, they sure caught my eye. Showing me, even as a zombie you can be anyone.

Is she still family?

Aunt June

Uncle Arthur

After leaping away from danger; time and time again, I escaped the clutches of evil for the evening event. This is where the spooky took control, a hero had to be found. Searching the entire night for someone to save the day from all the zombies, it was as if there were no cure and better yet no escape from the claws of evil!

Resurrection

They've Risen

Danger

I had seen enough. The last straw of evil was in front of me. The remaining survivors were losing hope as the goal to reach 500 survivors weren't working well enough because the infected just kept spreading out. There was nothing left to be seen; but wait! Is it a plane, a train, an automobile; it was faster than any locomotive and speeding bullet I've ever seen! Passing all the undead to the finish line! It's SUPERMAN!

Lately I've had the opportunity of traveling. As a traveler you have many opportunities of meeting some very dynamic individuals. My current path of forward movement gave me the privilege of meeting Ryan Peticca; a native Clevelander, as well as, a fellow commercial photographer. As a creative it's not about knowing what's next, but only living in the now.

I was fortunate enough to collaborate some existing projects with him and in the process sparked some new visual ideas.

The Mechanics within the brain. A drive that pushes the thoughts to undiscovered areas.

Travelers are a rare breed. Unlike a "gypsy", travelers are unseen, unnoticed and unappreciated by most. Many are seeking forth excitement, knowledge, or even purpose. They come and go, searching for answers. As pioneers traveled west, searching for new beginnings. They could only hope and imagine what they may discover in the promise land, "The Gold Coast".

Las Vegas; modern day gold mining for most. Temptation is seen in many ways.

I too have found myself to become a traveler, in search for something more. Don't lose focus or be blinded by any temptation that may present itself. Embrace new challenges and difficulties, as they are new learning experiences. Focus on the growth and progression of life before our very own eyes. This can only lead to self progression; a power greater than most, an essential cog in our system.

Promise lies ahead. Stay focused, reward may present itself.

I can't recall of a pioneer traveling east, where most are entrapped in hibernation. For some reason I am a very rare breed, one who can say that I've found my main cog and have pushed myself to unseen limits in life. Giving up my entire gold coast to discover what lied ahead. This is a still a mystery to me; however, a journey to uncharted territories can only be seen as eye opening in many ways.

We all have fears. For some of us it's an unpleasant emotion that sticks to our brain since childhood, like flying or even the dark. We feel threatened by that emotion. However, sometimes we do get that feeling as if we're on top of the world. Just like Superman himself; although, even he is afraid of kryptonite. It's all about that moment in life that you have to come face to face with your fears and challenge yourself.

The sun is our main source of light. It's up to us to show that we keep moving forward when it's gone.

Being content is easy because it's a peaceful happiness. The more you feel content, the less you fight your fears and challenge yourself. With progressing you sometimes need to take that leap of faith to move forward, sure we're all afraid of this. It's easy to be content, at the end of the day we all just want to be at peace with ourselves and at peace where we're at in life. Just know, after we challenge ourselves we'll be back on the same path. Still striving forward looking for a new fear to conquer.

A new day brings new light and endless possibilities. Beauty is out there, you just have to keep looking for what's next.

Fate and Karma are two words that are somewhat similar at times. I think of fate as an underlying truth in life; not everything is fate, or else we'd all forget the thrill of living in the moment. However, karma is about the give and take relationship, you never know what life will give back to you down the road. Paying it forward always helps.

My #1 Instinct in life is to always have fun! The last challenge was a doozy; however, we progressed and kept moving forward. Driving for so long over time, we as humans almost forget to enjoy what's around us. Being from LA, I am still not used to this thing mother nature calls "POW".

The early bird always catches the worm, and more!

Forget your surroundings and just dive on in, just know you'll be safe as long as you trust mother nature. I'm glad we both had the same mindset and were always willing to explore outside of the box. Time adds up quick; you can only jump, dive, and keep moving forward. Not having much time to enjoy things, we almost forget what's around us. This is how I lost my beloved "Konica-Minolta" light meter. There's no turning back, only the movement of progression.

"The next following days won't be about my story but will be about my great Co-PilotWild Bill. I'm taking a step back from it all to enjoy life. I have been way too wrapped up in technology to see the true beauty that surrounds me at my new destination. It's been a bit challenging adapting to the cold, everyone deals with it in their own way. Gotta keep focused on you and soon enough you'll get to where you want to be." -AMS

Keep focused ahead, reward and promise are waiting on the other side.

10 min into his endeavors. This is where the name "Wild Bill" was born.

Another day, another adventure! You have to live and learn each day. Ice was not the funnest to drive on, especially when you literally do donuts on the highway. Luckily we were both A-OK. The one positive thing about snow, it works as a great safety pillow.

It's been far too long, but then again sometimes you gotta disappear to start an Adventure. As the song says it, I am "Safe and Sound." My journey ahead was a very long one indeed, seeing as I left on January 1st! Let's start off by showing you how it all started.

Thanks to Roadtrippers I was able to set ahead and see how long it would take for me to get to certain destinations and how much gas it would take.

My philosophy lately in life has been to be as progressive as I can each day at a time, focused on the now and not the then. However, we all need change to advance in life. Yes, that is a risk in itself but it just has to be done if you want to "Level Up". That is what I stuck by, as I walked out the door one last time and packed up my life in literally 2 days.

Sayonara for now California.

Adventuring across the country in uncharted waters and unfamiliar territory. On the journey ahead to see familiar faces and reconnect with old friends.

The game of Life isn't the easiest game in the world, if so we'd all be enjoying our cake by now. The journey ahead doesn't have to be a 1 person game. I luckily thought of this before hand, my friend so happened to be available to start a new chapter himself.

Bill the Adventurer, along for the wild ride ahead. What lies ahead for the both of us is just a mystery waiting to be solved.

That day I trusted my gut and left on the first day of the year to set off a new Chapter in my life. Who knows whats next for Bill and I, I'm just taking life one day at a time until I reach where I want to be next in life. For now, Adventure on and enjoy what's at hand.

Look forward for more of the Road Ahead; one last look of some California Beauty in the Mojave.